The Cliffs of Arbel
A Majestic Witness of The Galilee’s History & Geography
Nestled high above the shimmering western shores of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel, the dramatic Cliffs of Arbel, also known as Mount Arbel, rise high above the coastline.
They are a silent and majestic witness to the Galilee’s rich history, geographical wonders, geological formations, and profound biblical significance. Rising to a height of approximately 380 meters (1,250 feet) above the Sea of Galilee, this awe-inspiring natural landmark has captivated visitors for centuries and became a popular site for many of our Sar-El Tours’ groups which journey through the region.
The rock formation’s high elevation rewards those who ascend it with breathtaking views of the entire eastern Galilee with its rich gospel background and a profound spiritual connection to the Lord’s presence and activities in this beautiful region that He called “home.”
New Testament Significance
The Cliffs of Arbel hold biblical significance as the region is referred to in both the Old and New Testament writings. In the New Testament gospel stories, the cliffs are associated with Jesus of Nazareth, His teachings, His miracles and His disciples. The Gospel of Matthew in particular tells us that after Jesus miraculously fed a vast multitude of thousands of men, women and children along the northern shoreline of the Sea of Galilee, “He went up to the mountain to pray,” referring to the Cliffs of Arbel, according to many Bible scholars.
The cliffs overlook the part of the Galilee where so much of Jesus’ time was spent, including the Sea of Galilee itself, also known as the Sea of Tiberias, where the Lord calmed the storm and walked upon the water. Capernaum and Beth Zaida are within site of the Arbel Cliffs, commemorating many of Jesus’ teachings, healing miracles and resurrections, including the raising of the widow’s son and the 12-year-old daughter of the Capernaum synagogue ruler.
Old Testament Reference
An Old Testament prophecy of Hosea, which describes God’s judgements over Israel, mentions one particular battle at a place called “Beth Arbel.” And while archeologists and biblical historians aren’t certain that this battle refers to our Arbel site, the text is mentioning “dashing to the ground” which does imply falling down from great heights. “Shalman” in the prophecy possibly refers to Shalmaneser III, the Assyrian king who invaded Israel during the first Assyrian invasion of 841 B.C., bringing devastation and destruction to Hazor and other northern cities.
Hosea’s tragic prophecy said, “the roar of battle will rise against your people, so that all your fortresses will be devastated… as Shalman devastated Beth Arbel on the day of battle, when mothers were dashed to the ground with their children...” (Hosea 10:4). And though the Cliffs of Arbel are mentioned by name only in this one biblical prophecy, we do find that this strategic rock formation rising above the western shores of the Sea of Galilee is referenced many times in various related historic documentation.
Historic Significance of Arbel
Although the cliffs are not often documented by name in ancient writings, their proximity to important historical sites and their strategic position in the region make them very significant. Beyond the biblical events mentioned above, we find various historic records of the Arbel Cliffs during the Jewish-Greek and the Jewish-Roman wars when the cliffs served as a refuge and a stronghold for Jewish forces who rebelled against the invading empires.
Josephus Flavius, the Jewish general who turned historian, in his classic writing nearly 2,000 years ago (Antiquities of the Jews – Book XII, 11, 1), described the military campaign of Bacchides, a Syrian general, who invaded Judea following the defeat of Nicanor by Judah the Maccabee at 167 B.C. Referring directly to Mount Arbel, Josephus wrote, “… sent Bacchides again with an army into Judea, who marched out of Antioch, and came into Judea, and pitched his camp at Arbela, a city of Galilee; and having besieged and taken those that were there in caves, (for many of the people fled into such places,) he removed, and made all the haste he could to Jerusalem”.
Josephus went on to describes the ending of another Jewish revolt, this one by Herod the Great at 40 B.C. when, once again, pagan armies fought the defending Jewish forces which were hiding in the deep caves that can be explored today in the Cliffs of Arbel. Josephus wrote that “… Herod … made an expedition of himself against those that lay in the caves. Now these caves were in the precipices of craggy mountains ... he let down the most hardy of his men in chests, and set them at the mouths of the dens. Now these men slew the robbers and their families, and when they made resistance, they sent in fire upon them [and burnt them] … By this means Herod subdued these caves, and the robbers that were in them …”
Josephus himself, while he was still the northern commander of the Jewish forces who revolted against the Romans, fortified the Arbel Cliffs stronghold in 66 A.D. in preparation for the Roman retaliation. He wrote, “I also fortified, in the Lower Galilee, the cities Tarichee, Tiberias, Sepphoris, and the villages, the cave of Arbela … I also laid up a great quantity of corn in these places, and arms withal, that might be for their security afterward.”
Historic records show that the history of the Arbel Cliffs can be traced back thousands of years, during which time the site has witnessed numerous civilizations, regional conflicts, and notable cultural exchanges. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the cliffs were inhabited since the Lower Paleolithic period, and that since the Iron Age the site of Arbel served as a stronghold for Canaanite tribes, for the Galilean Jews, and later becoming a key military base for the Hasmonean dynasty until it was conquered during the 1st Century B.C. by the Roman general Vespasian who fortified the cliffs again in order to secure the empire’s control over the entire region.
During the Jewish-Roman War, the cliffs became a refuge for Jewish freedom fighters who were led by the Zealots. Their resistance against the Roman legions led to the final fierce battle which was waged on and below the cliffs, resulting in a brutal Roman victory. The fortress atop the cliffs was destroyed, most of the Jewish fighters lost their lives, and the Cliffs of Arbel became a symbol of Jewish heroism and resistance in the face of pagan invaders.
The Geography & Geology of Arbel
The Cliffs of Arbel are situated in the Lower Galilee region, about 5 kilometers northwest from the City of Tiberias and overlooking the Sea of Galilee. The cliffs are part of the Arbel Nature Reserve, covering an area of about 1,400 hectares, and are a popular site for both local Israelis and international visitors, including many of our Sar-El groups.
Geologically, the cliffs are primarily composed of limestone and dolomite rock formations which were formed during the Cretaceous period. These sedimentary rock layers were uplifted and folded due to powerful tectonic activity along the Syrian-African fault system that also created the Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. The 3,000 mile long Syrian-African fault marks the boundary between the Arabian and the African Tectonic Plates.
The limestone and dolomite layers that comprise the cliffs are rich in fossils, providing valuable insights into the region's ancient marine life. Fossilized remains of mollusks, corals, and other marine organisms can be found in the rock formations, indicating that the area was once submerged beneath water. Erosion has played a significant role in shaping the cliffs into their current striking form which draws visitors from far and wide.
Beauty of Arbel
Visually, the Cliffs of Arbel offer mesmerizing panoramic views of the eastern Galilee, the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the surrounding pastoral landscapes. From the epic observation point on top of the Cliffs, visitors can glance upon the sparkling blue waters of the Sea of Galilee below, the lush green fields and orchards of the Galilean hills, and the picturesque communities stretching into the distance. Renowned for their stunning sunsets and sunrises, the Arbel Cliffs are a source of never-ending magical experiences and inspiration for those who visit them.
Activities at the Cliffs of Arbel
Being part of the extended Arbel Nature Reserve that stretches along the western shoreline of the Sea of Galilee and into the lower Galilee, visitors enjoy various hiking trails, including the famous gospel oriented “Jesus Trail.” These trails welcome visitors to explore and experience the natural beauty of the region, and hiking to the top of the cliffs is a popular challenge providing not only stunning views, but also a sense of accomplishment (although most of our Sar-El groups arrive to the top of the cliffs by bus… 😊). The trails cater to different skill levels, ranging from easy paths to more challenging routes that require stamina and endurance.
The Arbel Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including aromatic plants, shrubs, and wildflowers which add vibrant colors to the already charming landscapes. Birdwatchers can spot various species, including raptors and migratory birds, while the surrounding areas feature foxes and wild boars. So, whether you are taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the cliffs, launching out on hiking adventures, or exploring the rich biodiversity of this fertile region, the Arbel Cliffs offer an unforgettable experience for those who visit this remarkable natural and biblical landmark.
A Christian’s Unique Experience
Christian pilgrims visiting the Cliffs of Arbel get a glimpse into the historical world of biblical Israel, as well as a beautiful visual introduction into Jesus’ world during the years of ministry that the Gospel narratives describe. The Cliffs not only offer dramatic views and insights into the region Jesus would call “home,” but the site also holds a special significance as it offers a unique connection to the biblical events that unfolded all around it. The Christian pilgrim visiting the Cliffs of Arbel could expect the following:
1. Spiritual Connection: Christian pilgrims visiting the Cliffs of Arbel, including many who arrive to the region with our Sar-El Tours’ operated groups, often experience a deep spiritual connection to the land itself and to its biblical history. Standing atop the cliffs, people of faith are re-introduced to the presence of Jesus the Messiah who grew up and spent most of His ministry years in the surrounding area and around the Sea of Galilee. A visit to this site grants the visitors a special moment to reflect on the miracles, the teachings, and the transformational encounters that took place in the vicinity.
2. Biblical Significance: The Arbel Cliffs overlook the Sea of Galilee which is central to many of the significant events and stories in the life of Jesus according to the Gospel narratives. It was within site of the Arbel Cliffs that Jesus calmed the storm, walked on water, fed the multitudes, taught the Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount, healed the sick and raised the dead. Christian pilgrims who ascend the Cliffs of Arbel gain a fresh vision and insight into these biblical truths.
3. Prayer and Reflection: Many Christian pilgrims find the Cliffs of Arbel to be an ideal place for prayer, meditation and reflection. The serene and majestic setting inspires a sense of tranquility and provide an opportunity for pilgrims to connect with their spiritual self, enjoy the presence of the Lord, and meditate on their personal journey of faith.
4. Contemplating the Christian call: Visiting the Cliffs of Arbel brings Christian pilgrims into a fresh encounter with Jesus' ministry, parables, miracles, and the countless people who would have gathered to hear his teachings right below this epic rock formation. The cliffs offer a vantage point to reflect on the impact of Jesus' words and actions on millions of lives throughout history, and an opportunity to examine ourselves in light of His calling.
5. Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: Christian pilgrims visiting the Cliffs of Arbel often tell us that they felt a sense of walking in the footsteps of Jesus and his disciples like nowhere else. The beautiful landscapes and rolling hills of the Lower Galilee help them imagine Jesus ascending the mountain to pray in solitary or looking at the gathering crowds, seeing them as sheep without a shepherd. Being there, many say, brings them closer to the heart of God.
No doubt, the Christian pilgrim's experience at the Cliffs of Arbel combines spiritual reflection, biblical contemplation and deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the region. The epic site invites the pilgrims to immerse themselves in the stories and teachings of Jesus, deepening their faith, and giving them a lasting and inspirational experiences of the Creator and His beautiful creation.
The Cliffs of Arbel with their historical legacy, impressive geography, fascinating geology and biblical significance offer visitors a profound experience. Whether you explore the ancient ruins of the biblical towns, hike the rugged gospel trails, or take in the breathtaking views of the Galilee, the cliffs provide a connection to Israel’s biblical reality alongside a strong sense of spiritual transcendence. Standing atop the Arbel Cliffs, visitors can join the timeless story of the Creator as they embrace the rich history, the natural beauty, and the spirit of this remarkable site.
Looking forward to seeing you in Israel soon.
Your Sar-El Tours team